BREAKING NEWS: Florida State Seminoles Stars DJ Uiagalelei, DJ Lundy, and Earl Little Jr. Donate Entire $180.9 Million to Homeless Shelter Initiative
TALLAHASSEE, FL – In a move that has stunned the world of college sports and earned admiration far beyond the gridiron, Florida State Seminoles football standouts DJ Uiagalelei, DJ Lundy, and Earl Little Jr. have announced the donation of their entire combined $180.9 million in bonus and sponsorship earnings to fund a groundbreaking homeless shelter and housing initiative across the state of Florida.
The trio, all projected first-round NFL prospects and national icons at FSU, said the donation will go toward building 150 permanent housing units and establishing emergency shelter capacity for 300 beds. The initiative, which is expected to break ground later this year, will serve unhoused individuals and families across Tallahassee and neighboring communities.
In a press conference filled with emotion, DJ Uiagalelei spoke about his personal motivation behind the move.
“I’ve seen the effects of homelessness firsthand growing up,” Uiagalelei said, fighting back tears. “There were nights when we didn’t know where we were going to sleep. I told myself that if I was ever blessed with this kind of opportunity, I would do something bigger than football.”
Uiagalelei, who transferred to Florida State and quickly became a campus leader both on and off the field, emphasized that the money isn’t just a donation—it’s a foundation for systemic change. The $180.9 million will be allocated in partnership with state and local governments, nonprofit developers, and mental health service providers.
DJ Lundy, a senior linebacker known for his relentless energy on the field, echoed his teammate’s sentiments.
“We win games together, and now we’re going to change lives together,” Lundy said. “There’s no reason anyone should be sleeping under a bridge or in their car while millions of dollars flow through college sports.”
Earl Little Jr., a standout defensive back and vocal advocate for community development, described the initiative as “just the beginning.” The players are also working with the FSU College of Social Work and the Department of Urban & Regional Planning to ensure the initiative is sustainable and community-led.
The project—tentatively titled Seminole Shelter Solutions—will include wraparound services such as job training, addiction recovery, mental health care, and educational programs. The shelter will operate as a low-barrier, 24-hour facility—meaning those in need won’t be turned away for past issues like criminal records or substance use.
FSU President Richard McCullough called the donation “one of the most selfless and impactful acts in the history of our university.”
“This isn’t just charity—this is leadership,” McCullough said. “These young men have set an example that transcends sports. They’ve used their platform to confront one of the toughest challenges facing our society.”
The trio’s decision comes amid growing debate over the role of name, image, and likeness (NIL) earnings in college sports. Critics have argued that the millions now flowing to college athletes could breed selfishness or corruption, but this historic act flips that narrative entirely.
Already, reaction has poured in from national figures. NFL stars, sports analysts, and political leaders have applauded the decision. ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith called it “the most powerful gesture of athlete-led philanthropy we’ve seen in decades.”
Construction on the housing units and shelters is expected to begin in early 2026. The players will retain no financial interest or control of the shelter network, choosing instead to serve as ambassadors and mentors for its residents.
In closing, Uiagalelei added: “We were given this platform, and now we’re using it for something that lasts longer than any season, any championship, any fame. We’re building homes—and hope.”
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